Fingerprint Control For Mobile Phones

The ATW310 biometric fingerprint sensor from AuthenTec enables single swipe access to the Matrix M5 telephone plus the use of different fingers to launch specific applications

AuthenTec has won its first cell phone design for the African and Middle East markets with the AuthenTec ATW310 (formerly Atrua) fingerprint sensor. The Matrix M5 makes use of the fingerprint security and personalization features of the ATW310 sensor, allowing users to unlock the phone with the simple swipe of a finger as well as launch phone shortcuts with the unique characteristics of different fingers.

The Matrix M5 is a low-cost, quad band, metallic 'candy bar' cell phone available in three different colours, black, coffee and sliver. The M5 offers security and convenience features through the use of the AuthenTec fingerprint sensor, which allows users with one swipe to unlock their phone, contact list and SMS messages as well as quick launch convenience features. Different enrolled fingers can launch up to five different shortcuts with a simple swipe of the fingerprint sensor.

"We are pleased that Matrix and their contract manufacturer Raydir have selected our fingerprint sensor for security and personalization in their newest cell phone model targeting Africa and Middle East," said Dr Lunji Qiu, VP and General Manager of AuthenTec China. "I have a history of working with Raydir in my previous position with Atrua as they have offered several fingerprint-enabled cell phone models that leveraged the features of the ATW310. The AuthenTec team is delighted to support the rollout of this new model as well as others planned for the EMEA region."

"It was a pleasure to work with AuthenTec not only due to their world leading fingerprint sensor technology but also because they provided us with great support. The use of the AuthenTec technology has allowed us to differentiate this model in a crowded market. I am looking forward to developing future programs and phone models with AuthenTec technology," said Mr Alex Zhao, General Manager of Raydir Technology.

AuthenTec acquired certain assets of Atrua Technologies in July 2009, including its "Fingerprint Touch Control" and "Micro Pressure Control" products, as well as technologies and IP associated with the Atrua fingerprint sensor hardware and software. The acquired IP included more than 30 issued and pending US patents, focused primarily on fingerprint sensor and intelligent touch controls for mobile devices.

AuthenTec is an ISO9001-certified provider of fingerprint sensors and solutions with the broadest product and IP portfolio in the silicon fingerprint sensor industry with 144 US patents issued and pending (as well as additional foreign patents). AuthenTec recently expanded its offering to include complete solutions for security, identity management and touch control via its new smart sensor hardware, software, and client applications as well as new products and IP from the Company's recent acquisition of SafeNet's Embedded Security Solutions Division.